Stranded hiker rescued from snowy North Shore mountain with only 1 per cent battery life
The Vancouver-based mountain search and rescue team added that it was fortunate that the hiker was able to call 911 for help.
“By the time NSR search managers spoke to her, she had 1 per cent battery life left.”
An NSR field team reached the hiker late on Friday, Feb 20, giving her warm layers, a headlamp, and snowshoes, before escorting her down the mountain.
Supporters of NSR praised the team for their hard work in helping the hiker and other outdoor adventurers who suddenly find themselves in dangerous situations.
“Thank you, North Shore Rescue,” shared one commenter. “We all appreciate your unwavering dedication to helping us when things go wrong, or when we find that we have made a mistake that could cost us life or limb.”
“We can all make mistakes. She called for help,” added another person.
“This is a lesson for which I hope she will come out a better and smarter recreationalist. Thank you, NSR.”
North Shore Rescue/Facebook
The search and rescue team used the incident as an opportunity to remind people to be prepared when they enjoy the great outdoors.
“This call serves as a good reminder for everyone recreating in the outdoors to take the 10 Essentials, set a realistic turn-around time, take layers and equipment appropriate for the prevailing conditions, and be mindful that both cold weather and poor cell signal can serve to rapidly drain your cell phone’s battery,” explained NSR.
To avoid becoming the next rescue, NSR recommends carrying what’s known as the 10 Essentials, a short list of must-haves that could save your life:
- Light: A headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries. Your phone light doesn’t count.
- Signalling Device: A whistle (Fox 40 is best), bear bangers, or flares.
- Fire Starter: Waterproof matches, a lighter, and a firestarter or candle.
- Warm Clothing: Non-cotton layers: toque, gloves, thermal base layers, and a windproof jacket.
- Pocketknife: Or multitool. Handy for building shelter or preparing food.
- Shelter: A large orange plastic bag or thermal tarp.
- Water & Food: At least 1-2L of water and high-energy snacks or bars.
- First Aid Kit: With basics like bandages, gloves, blister care, and a pocket mask.
- Navigation Tools: Compass, physical maps, and GPS (apps like Gaia or CalTopo, not Google Maps).
- Communication Device: Fully charged phone (in airplane mode), plus a backup battery or satellite beacon.
One last tip: always tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back — leaving a trip plan with a friend or family member could be what gets you home.
With files from Daily Hive staff